BN faces tough road ahead in Nenggiri by-election - Analysts

SHAH ALAM - Barisan Nasional (BN) is expected to face a tough path not only in the Nenggiri by-election but also in any future by-elections, following the recent Sungai Bakap by-election results.

Universiti Malaya political analyst Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said that the current political situation does not favour BN, making it difficult for them to secure a win.

He said BN, particularly Umno, needs a boost to strengthen and gain the trust of the Malays for any by-election.

“Although the majority in Nenggiri is only 810 votes, in Sungai Bakap, with a previously small majority, Perikatan Nasional (PN) managed to win almost twice the majority compared to before.

"Issues such as diesel targeting and fluctuating prices will be political weapons for PN to easily retain the seat,” he said.

He was commenting on the Unity Government leadership council's decision to field a BN candidate representing the Unity Government in the Nenggiri by-election this August.

When asked about the potential of Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah as a candidate to ensure BN's victory, Tawfik expressed doubts, noting that the veteran Umno leader's influence has waned.

“To me, Ku Li’s era has ended, and his influence has diminished.

"Ku Li's presence does not significantly aid BN’s victory in Nenggiri,” he added.

Meanwhile, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Psychological Operations Fellow at the Centre for Media and Information Warfare Studies Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said that the Unity Government's decision to field a BN candidate was anticipated.

According to him, this decision is crucial to gauge the acceptance of Malay voters towards the contesting political parties.

“This is important to form political balance and ensure the Unity Government, especially BN and Umno, opens opportunities to create a socio-economic development manifesto for the benefit of the local community,” he added.